Overstep - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To overstep means to go beyond accepted limits or boundaries, often in behavior or authority. It implies exceeding what is considered proper or allowed, such as overstepping one’s role.
Definition:
Exceed limits or boundaries, often in a disrespectful or unauthorized manner.
Synonyms:
transgress, exceed, violate, encroach
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
respect, observe
Common Collocations:
overstep boundaries, overstep authority, overstep the mark
Derivatives:
overstepping, overstepped
Usage Tips:
Use "overstep" when someone goes beyond accepted limits, especially in authority or social norms.
Common Phrases:
overstep the mark, overstep one's bounds, overstep the line
Etymology:
Derived from Old English "ofor" (over) + "steppan" (to step), meaning to step beyond limits.
Examples:
- 1. She didn't want to overstep her role as a junior employee.
- 2. Parents should avoid overstepping their children's privacy boundaries.
- 3. The manager warned him not to overstep his authority again.
- 4. Politicians often overstep ethical lines in their campaigns.